The Jonah Experience

“Arise, go to Nineveh… and cry against it. BUT Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.” –Jonah 1:2-3

Take time to read the book of Jonah this week, it’s a short book with only 4 chapters. Many times in the Bible, when God gives someone a command or instruction, the very next verse is: “and so-and-so did as the Lord commanded.” Not so with Jonah. And I find that I am more like him than I’d like to be. After reading the story of Jonah, I wrote in my journal: “This whole story seems little to do with Nineveh, and more about God trying to develop His heart and mindset in Jonah– letting Jonah see from God’s perspective and realizing the breadth of His power and love.”

How many of the “storms” and setbacks in my life have been orchestrated because God wants me to abandon my perspective in order to experience His perfect understanding?

I’ve prayed that God would give me and show me His heart, but didn’t fully grasp the fact that in order to gain His, I must submit mine.

The book really showcases Jonah’s journey in facing and conquering his emotions: prejudice, fear, anger, and suicidal depression. Emotions are apart of who we are, but they can deter our walks and distract us if they are not under the control of the Holy Spirit. God wasn’t simply after Jonah’s obedience, but after his heart. He’s after your’s as well. Don’t run from God, run to Him!